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The fictional universe of J.K. Rowling is filled with fantastical creatures, and no other movie takes better advantage of this than Fantastical Beasts and Where to Find Them, which opens in theaters today.

When creating her magical world, Rowling is tapping into a literary tradition that goes all the way back to the Middle Ages and the literary genre of the bestiary.

Bestiaries are books of animals, both real and fantastical, accompanied by a description and a Christian parable. Even though bestiaries peaked in popularity in the 13^th century, they continue to influence us today. Especially when it comes to fantasy fiction.

Photo taken by Quirk Books

Moana is about to hit theaters, and one of its central characters, the demigod Maui, is voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Once known exclusively as a world champion pro wrestler, The Rock has since gone on to carve out quite the acting career for himself, as an action movie star, a television star, and now, a character in a Disney animated movie.

So what's next in The Rock's impressive career? Well, how about tackling some literary roles? While we haven't seen The Rock do anything quite like this before, he's been impressing us for years with his versatility, so we have no doubt he could handle it. Below are a few characters we would love to see him bring to life.

Maple by Katie Webster: $3.99!

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Maple syrup is much more than a perfect topping for pancakes—it’s a simple and seasonal way to add welcome sweetness to every meal. From fast and nutritious entrees like Maple Tahini Chicken and Broccoli to more sophisticated fare like Maple Cider Brined Pork, these easy recipes will change your relationship with this familiar flavor.

And since maple syrup is paleo and vegan friendly (and naturally gluten free), almost anyone can enjoy such treats as Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Pie and Maple Pear Ginger Sorbet. Serve up the sweet taste of fall whenever you want it, with 100 no-fail recipes, plus tips on storage, substitution, and DIY syrupmaking.

Get the most out of your maple!

KATIE WEBSTER is a chef, food blogger, and food photographer specializing in healthy seasonal cuisine. Her cooking videos, original recipes, and upbeat food writing can be seen online at her food blog, Healthy Seasonal Recipes. She is a contributor to Eating Well magazine, Fitness, and Parents. She and her family live amid a stand of maple trees, which they tap every spring to make their own maple syrup.

Today is the Great American Smokeout. In the United States approximately 40 million people smoke some form of tobacco product. Created in 1977, the first of these annual events was held in San Francisco. Now with the help of the American Cancer Society, this once small event has grown to a huge movement. The idea is that for twenty-four hours on the third Thursday in November, smokers attempt to challenge themselves not to use any tobacco products. With luck, these people will be able to continue on to the next day and the day after that, eventually kicking the habit. In honor of this great event, we at Quirk wanted to take a look at some literary characters who could stand a little less smoke in their lungs.

Miraz’s Castle

In Narnia, neighborhoods don’t get much trendier than Beaversdam, but this expansive abode next to the Great River, a popular place for jogging and picnicking, is timeless.

Peanuts are the most divisive of legumes. While some may love the salty crunchy snacks, others find them to be perhaps the most vile and disgusting piece of food on the face of the planet. The month of November is for the peanut lovers. Since it is national Peanut Butter Month, we at Quirk are going to take a look at some pairings of deliciously peanut based snacks and some of literatures best stories.